Chemical Peels

Typically, the recovery from a peel is very simple and not long. The product used can make your skin sting, turn red, and become slightly irritated, but certain gels and creams will be prescribed to reduce any discomfort. The healing process varies in time, depending upon the type of peel, but the usual healing time is as follows:

• A superficial chemical peel will take about seven days to heal, with dead skin coming off during that period. Most patients can wear makeup the following day.
• A medium chemical peel will require about two weeks to heal, and the skin will initially be red and some swelling will occur. Blisters can appear, and the facial skin will crust and then peel off over the next seven to fourteen days. Makeup to hide any flaws as the skin rejuvenates can be worn after about seven days.
• A deep chemical peel will require two to three weeks to heal. The skin will be bandaged and must be soaked four to six times a day, and ointment will need to be applied for the first two weeks to protect the skin during healing. Medication is prescribed to combat any potential harm to the skin and all sun exposure must be avoided for six months. After about two weeks, special makeup can be used to cover the appearance of healing skin.